Thane to Receive 100 Electric AC Buses by April to Reduce Pollution
Thane is set to receive 100 air-conditioned electric buses under the government’s ‘PM e-Bus Service’ scheme by April 2025. This announcement, made by Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske on Wednesday, comes as part of the efforts to modernise the city’s public transport system and reduce air pollution. The electric buses will be inducted into the Thane Municipal Transport (TMT) fleet, contributing significantly to both environmental goals and the city’s transport needs.
Mhaske, who is also a member of the Standing Committee in the Urban Development and Housing department, highlighted that the approval from the central government for the 100 buses marks a major step in the city’s sustainable development. Out of these buses, 60 will be 9 metres in length, while the remaining 40 will be 12 metres long, providing a much-needed boost to Thane’s public transport infrastructure. At present, the TMT fleet consists of approximately 350 to 400 buses. However, this number has been falling short in meeting the growing demands of passengers, particularly in a city that has seen rapid population growth and urbanisation in recent years. Mhaske pointed out that the introduction of these electric buses would alleviate congestion, reduce pollution, and ensure a cleaner, more efficient form of public transport for Thane residents.
These electric buses are not only a major step toward a greener future but also come at a critical time when cities like Thane are grappling with pollution and traffic congestion. The move is aligned with the government’s broader push to reduce carbon emissions from the transport sector and support the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) across India. Mhaske, in his speech, also called for further support for the TMT, requesting that additional buses be provided for the city’s transport body, along with increased subsidies for the financially weak undertaking. As part of his proposal, Mhaske urged the central government to increase its subsidy from the current ₹24 per kilometre to ₹29 per kilometre to ease the financial burden on the TMT. He also recommended reducing the minimum distance for subsidy eligibility from 200 km to 160 km, a change he believes would allow more cities like Thane to benefit from government assistance. Mhaske’s request also included an appeal for the upgradation and modernisation of Thane’s bus depots to ensure the new buses are effectively managed and maintained. The shift to electric buses is expected to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers, offering not just cleaner air but also a more comfortable and eco-friendly mode of transport.
Moreover, the 100 electric buses are expected to play a crucial role in reducing the city’s carbon footprint. As Thane continues to expand and develop, these efforts will be vital in ensuring that the city’s growth remains in line with sustainable practices. The buses are also expected to encourage other cities in India to adopt similar measures in modernising their public transport systems. This development marks a pivotal moment in Thane’s journey toward becoming a smarter, greener city. It is a testament to the growing commitment towards sustainable urban mobility, which is becoming increasingly essential as India aims to meet its environmental goals and improve the quality of life for its citizens. With the government pushing for more initiatives like the PM e-Bus Service, Thane is setting a positive example for cities across the country. By bringing in these eco-friendly buses, Thane is not only enhancing its public transport but also positioning itself at the forefront of India’s electric vehicle revolution. This shift to clean and efficient public transport is a crucial step toward reducing pollution and improving air quality, making the city more livable for its growing population.
